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Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Centers

Find treatment programs specializing in benzodiazepine dependence. Medical detox with gradual tapering is essential — cold turkey can be fatal.

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Understanding Benzodiazepine Dependence

Benzodiazepine dependence often develops through legitimate medical prescriptions for anxiety, insomnia, or seizure disorders. Physical dependence can develop in as little as 2-4 weeks of daily use. An estimated 5.3 million Americans misuse benzodiazepines annually, and benzo-involved overdose deaths have increased significantly when combined with opioids.

Unlike most substances, benzodiazepine withdrawal requires a medically supervised taper rather than abrupt cessation. Cold-turkey discontinuation can trigger seizures, psychosis, and death — making professional treatment not just recommended but medically essential.

Medical Tapering Protocols

Evidence-based benzo detox follows a gradual dose reduction schedule, typically converting the patient to a long-acting benzodiazepine (diazepam) and reducing the dose by 5-10% every 1-2 weeks. The total taper duration depends on the starting dose, duration of use, and individual tolerance.

Sources & References

  1. [1] NIDA. Benzodiazepines and Opioids. 2024.
  2. [2] Ashton CH. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw. 2002.
  3. [3] CDC. Benzodiazepine-Involved Overdose Deaths. 2024.

Benzo Rehab: Common Questions

Yes. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause life-threatening seizures. Never stop benzodiazepines cold turkey — a gradual medically supervised taper over weeks to months is essential. The risk level depends on the specific benzo, dose, duration of use, and whether alcohol is also involved.

Benzodiazepine detox/tapering typically takes 2-8 weeks for short-acting benzos (Xanax, Ativan) and up to several months for long-acting benzos (Valium, Klonopin). The Ashton Manual protocol is widely used, converting patients to diazepam (Valium) for a controlled, gradual taper.

The primary approach is a controlled taper using long-acting benzodiazepines (diazepam). Adjunct medications may include anticonvulsants (gabapentin, carbamazepine), antidepressants, and beta-blockers for anxiety symptoms. The taper must be individualized — too fast increases seizure risk.

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